U.S. Issues Sanctions Against Haqqani Network Commander

The United States has declared the Haqqani network's chief of suicide operations an international terrorist and imposed financial sanctions against him.

In a statement, the State Department said Qari Zakir is responsible for the Pakistan-based militant group's planning of suicide attacks and training fighters in the use of small arms, heavy weapons, and explosive devices.

It also said Zakir is the network's operational commander in several Afghan provinces.

The move blocks any U.S. assets Zakir may hold and prohibits any transactions with him.

It comes after Washington named the Haqqani network a terrorist organization in September.

U.S. officials blame the group for attacks against foreign forces in Afghanistan.

The U.S. statement also credited the UN for including the network and Zakir on its global sanctions list on November 5.

Based on AP and RFE/RL reporting